In the old days, if you needed an over-the-counter medicine for fever or pain, you had basically one option: aspirin.

Aspirin's still around, but these days it's got some strong competition.

Acetaminophen, which is sold as the brand Tylenol, is effective against fever and minor pain from conditions like headaches and backaches.

But unlike its competitors, it doesn't reduce inflammation. Ibuprofen, sold as Motrin and Advil, is in a class of medications known as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs--or NSAIDs for short.

They work by reducing the levels of chemicals called prostaglandins.

These are responsible for not only pain and fever, but also inflammation. Ibuprofen can be very useful for conditions that involve inflammation - like those swollen joints from arthritis

Or a sprained ankle you might get from playing basketball. But it can irritate the stomach so you'll need to take it with food.

Ibuprofen and other NSAIDs have been linked to a greater risk of heart attacks and strokes, so people who have heart disease or those at risk for it should use extra caution when taking these meds.

Naproxen, which is sold as Aleve, is also an NSAID. It has the same benefits as ibuprofen and can also cause stomach irritation.

But Naproxen tends to be effective longer,

And some research suggests it may be safer than ibuprofen when it comes to cardiovascular risks.

As always, if you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.